VIDEO: Ever Wondered Where the Rain Goes?

Sustainable Drainage Systems

In 2013, CIRIA’s susdrain project launched an exciting animation on Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) that provides an engaging and digestible overview of SuDS. The short animation called ‘Ever wondered where the rain goes?’ demonstrates how changes to the natural water cycle caused by development can be positively managed, and, how SuDS turns this challenge into an exciting opportunity contributing to better places.

“Whilst sustainable drainage is a relatively simple concept, it is often communicated using technical jargon. This animation helps promote sustainable drainage by communicating the drivers, opportunities and benefits in an engaging way,” explains Paul Shaffer, CIRIA associate and susdrain project manager.

The animation explains how SuDS replicate natural drainage by managing rainfall close to where it falls, and how SuDS components like rain gardens and permeable paving can be used. It also celebrates the multiple benefits of SuDS including managing local flood risk, treating pollution from surface water runoff, enhancing biodiversity and providing great places for wildlife, people and communities.

To Learn More:

Created by CIRIA, www.susdrain.org is the independent and authoritative platform for those involved in delivering sustainable drainage in the United Kingdom. To watch Paul Shaffer discuss susdrain, click here.

CIRIA is the construction industry research and information association. Operating across market sectors and disciplines CIRIA deliver a programme of business improvement services and research activities for those engaged with the delivery and operation of the built environment. CIRIA is an independent member based, not-for-profit association. For more information visit www.ciria.org.

The animation looks at how SuDS replicates natural drainage by managing rainfall